Classic Games Database
ClassicGames DB

Blaster Master

Review
Also known as
Chōwakuseisenki Metafight 超惑星戦記メタファイト

This action game combines side-scrolling tank combat with challenging overhead dungeons.

Blaster Master was released for the NES in North America in June 1988. The original game, also titled Blaster Master, was first released on the NES in Japan on June 17, 1988, making the NES the original platform.

About Blaster Master

Blaster Master is an action game that alternates between two distinct perspectives. The primary mode involves platforming stages navigated with a vehicle called SOFIA the 3rd, a tank equipped with a main cannon and special weapons like homing missiles. Exploration in these side-view areas is gated, requiring the acquisition of specific vehicle upgrades found elsewhere.

These necessary upgrades, such as the ability to swim or drive on walls, are obtained by the protagonist, Jason, during separate overhead segments. In these top-down areas, he exits the tank to proceed on foot, using a gun and grenades against enemies. His personal weapon can be enhanced through collected power-ups.

The narrative context involves Jason pursuing his mutated pet frog into an underground world, a quest that expands into confronting a threat known as the Evil Plutonium Boss. Progress is maintained through a challenging continue system that lacks any save or password function, ending the game upon the loss of all lives.

Blaster Master Screenshots

10 images
Title Screen
Title screen (European version)
Japanese title screen
Everything starts with a frog...
In Japan, you start out in a high-tech corridor, not in a cave
While looking for my frog, I found a tank!
Atomic Batteries to power!... Turbines to speed!...
SOPHIA is missing a few parts. At least I have airbags.
Oh yeah? well MY tank can jump...
Unfortunately SOPHIA can not climb down ladders